Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 13:44

"The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in the field; which a man found, and hid; and in his joy he goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." — Matthew 13:44 (ASV)

Still the theme is “the kingdom of heaven.” The man came upon hidden treasure, perhaps while he was plowing or digging. He was not looking for it, yet he found it. Is it not written, I am found of them that sought me not?

To obtain a right to the treasure-trove, the finder must buy the field, and to do this he parts with all that he has. So men act when they discover the riches of the Gospel. So did Jesus himself, at the utmost cost, buy the world to gain His Church, which was the treasure He desired.

The special application of the parable we leave to the reader. Practically, he will do well to become the chief actor in a similar incident. Gladly may he part with all that he has to make sure of the kingdom of heaven.

He hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

Some persons do stumble upon the gospel when they are not looking for it. I am found of them that sought me not is a grand free grace text. Some of those who have been most earnest in the kingdom of heaven were at one time most indifferent and careless, but God in infinite sovereignty put the treasure in their way – gave them the heart to value it, and they obtained it to their own joy.